Rainbow Falls is a low waterfall on the Chehalis River in Lewis County, Washington, dropping about 5 feet inside Rainbow Falls State Park.
The falls
The river spills over a broad, rounded basalt ledge at a shallow, about 20-degree pitch, running out over roughly 50 feet. The current World Waterfall Database survey lists one drop and no more than 5 feet of height; during heavy runoff or flooding, the low ledge can become nearly submerged beneath the river.
Getting there
The falls sit inside Rainbow Falls State Park at 4008 State Route 6, near Chehalis, open for day use from 8 a.m. to dusk year-round. A three-mile trail network covers the park's south side. A 2007 flood took out the park's original bridge, so trail parking is now along the two-lane highway. A Discover Pass is required: $10 for a single day or $45 for the year. As of September 2026 the park remains open; a Level 2 burn ban has been posted since September 18, and the kitchen shelter is closed through December 30, but neither notice affects the waterfall area.
When to go
The park is open year-round. The falls can visually disappear beneath the river during heavy runoff or flooding, and no preferred viewing months are published.
On site
The falls are viewed near the bridge over the Chehalis River. Swimming is allowed in the river, though there is no designated swimming area or lifeguard. Dogs must be leashed, and the highway parking and the moving river call for watching children closely.
History and name
Before the park was developed, the site served as a customary Indigenous fishing, hunting, gathering and family meeting place. George Onn is credited with naming the falls for the U.S. Army's Rainbow Division of World War I; the park was dedicated on July 9, 1933, and the Civilian Conservation Corps later built a suspension bridge here.
Nearby
Rock Creek Falls is about 7.7 miles away, South Garrard Falls about 8.7 miles, and Fisk Falls about 9.3 miles.
Distances are straight-line.